ABOUT THAI MASSAGE
Sabai is a Thai word meaning "relaxed" or "comfortable" – and that's just how you'll feel after a Thai massage!
Traditional Thai Massage, also known as Ancient Massage or Thai Yoga Massage, dates back more than three hundred years in its present form, with its origins going back more than 5,000 years to ancient India and China. While Thai Massage combines elements of Ayeurvedic medicine, Hatha yoga and Chinese acupressure, it has evolved into a system that is entirely unique and is widely regarded as one of the best systems of therapeutic massage.
Benefits of Thai Massage
Many health benefits have been associated with Thai Massage, including:
-
Relief from stress and muscle tension
-
Relief from aches and pains
-
Improved circulation
-
Unblocking and balancing of energy flow
-
Detoxification
-
Improved alignment
-
Increased flexibility and range of motion
-
Increased energy
-
Improved mood
-
Lymphatic drainage
-
Release of endorphins
-
Better sleep
-
Lower blood pressure
Like any form of massage, benefits increase with repeated treatments.
Technique
Thai Massage combines gentle, yoga-like stretching with massage of the muscles, tendons, pressure points and energy lines, or Sen. While there are hundreds of energy lines in the body, Thai massage focuses on the ten main energy lines, or Sip Sen.
The Massage is done on a table. This allows the practitioner to get the body leverage necessary for the stretches and postures characteristically used in Thai Massage. Depending on the needs of the client, Thai Massage technique may also employ the elbows, knees and feet in addition to the hands.
The pressure can be varied according to your preference. Less pressure should be used the first time, while more pressure can be applied as your body can tolerate deeper work. Always feel free to request the level of pressure that feels right for you. Be sure to tell your masseuse about any pain or specific problem areas that you would like help with.
Traditionally, oil is not used in Thai Massage, but you may request some oil if you would prefer. This may be especially helpful with tension in the neck, shoulders and back.
Thai Massage is an integrated, sequenced procedure that normally takes 90 minutes, and, in Thailand, massages of two-hours or more are not uncommon. We make every effort to keep our fees reasonable so you can take advantage of extended times. However, you may schedule a massage for 1 hour, 1 1/2 hours, or 2 hours.
What to Wear
The client does not need to disrobe completely for a Thai Massage as the therapist can work right through light clothing such as yoga-wear or workout clothing. A comfortable pair of shorts and a light top is ideal. Thai-Sabai provides appropriate attire for both men and women and a changing area for your convenience.
After Your Massage
After a Thai massage, you should drink plenty of water to help with detoxification. You may feel some soreness or discomfort for the first 24 hours, especially in areas where you have had problems. After that, you should feel relaxed and refreshed!
Gratuity
Tipping is customary for massage and other spa services. The industry standard is 25-30%
Gratuity in cash is greatly appreciated. Thank you!